Simplify your life – tips for decluttering your space

Some people think your home is a representation of your mind, so keeping it tidy will translate to a clearer mind. Clutter builds up slowly, and by the time you realize it, the amount may be overwhelming. Hopefully, this doesn’t demotivate you, because decluttering your space is certainly one of the most satisfying things you can do. You’ll notice how much mental and physical tension is released just by organizing your environment. This process isn’t always easy, so it will take a lot of patience and commitment. We have some tips for decluttering your space in order to simplify your life.

Look at everything

Clutter isn’t something you notice you’re creating until you step back and look around you. Whether it’s a pile of dishes or overflowing drawers, everyone has something that needs a little help decluttering. But, until you’ve examined all the areas of your house, you won’t know where to start. Make a list of the areas that need some attention, and prioritize them by necessity and difficulty.

Divide and conquer

One of the best tips that you can apply to almost every room in your house is the use of dividers. Dividers and boxes will help separate your things into categories, making it also much easier to remember where things are. It also gives things a permanent place in the house so after use, it can go straight back into its little cubby instead of on the counter top. There are a ton of Instagram-worthy organization and storage options out there that will keep your space clutter-free and stylish.

The bedroom

Everyone’s favorite room of the house – where the bed is. This is always a great place to start decluttering your space, since a lot of us spend most of our time locked away in the cave we call our bedroom. Before doing anything else, make your bed with some fresh sheets (you’ll thank us later). Not only will it make your room look cleaner but it will also discourage you from laying back down throughout your day.

Don’t be afraid to use the space below your bed for extra storage (if this is an option). Why not keep those monsters under your bed company with some containers for items you use less frequently, but can’t throw out. Quick tip – large luggage usually fits perfectly under the bed.

Home office

If you have a desk in your home, now is the time to go through those messy drawers filled with miscellaneous items like cables, paper clips or receipts. It’s surprising how much gets shoved in those drawers in a crude attempt to hide the mess. Empty everything out and either toss it in the trash or place it neatly in a compartment if it’s something you need to keep.

Next, arrange your desk space. This area is important especially if you’re working from home because it affects your focus and productivity. If your desk is clear and orderly, you’ll feel more motivated to work.

Closet

Undoubtedly, decluttering your closet will be the main event of this journey since clothes are one of our leading causes of clutter.

This is where the “yes” and “no” pile will come in handy. Go through every item in your closet (and we really do mean every piece) and sort it in either the “yes” pile or “no” pile. Channel your inner Marie Kondo and determine which clothing item sparks joy – chances are, there’s a lot more you can throw out than you think. Parting with clothes can be tough, but it’s a decision we all have to make. A good rule is how recently or often you’ve worn something. If it doesn’t fit, or you haven’t worn it very often, it probably needs to go. However, you can turn this into a positive by donating your “no” pile clothes.

Bathroom

The bathroom is the land of empty or expired products. It’s a good idea to go through all the products and bottles you have sitting in your bathroom, because you’re likely to find some that are expired or nearly empty. Also consider getting rid of products you rarely use or that you aren’t completely sure about. You’d be surprised how much space you can free up. Plus, having a tidy bathroom will make getting ready in the morning that much easier.

Kitchen

First things first – wash all those dirty dishes. Once that’s out of the way, we can really get into the nitty-gritty details that will ultimately make your life easier. Categorizing and labeling your herbs and spices will help avoid tragic confusion when it’s time to flavor your cooking.

Also ditch the cardboard snack boxes, cereal boxes and pasta boxes – reusable containers are the way to go. Not only do they look cleaner and more pleasing to the eye, but they also keep the food for longer. Don’t be afraid to use wall space to hang your cooking utensils – who knew that your spatula could be so aesthetic?

Living room

Let’s start with the easy stuff – fluff those couch cushions and clear out your coffee table. The living room is a place where people gather, so naturally you want it to remain clean. Adding some stylish storage options like ottomans or baskets not only gives you extra space but also adds a stylish touch to your living room.

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